Are crypto spreads fixed or variable with IC Markets and Plus500?

Both IC Markets and Plus500 offer variable crypto spreads. These spreads fluctuate based on market conditions, liquidity, and volatility. IC Markets, especially with its raw spread accounts, aims for very tight variable spreads, often with a commission. Plus500 also has variable spreads, but the trading cost is built into the wider spread, without a separate commission.

Which broker offers tighter crypto spreads?

Generally, IC Markets, particularly through its raw spread accounts, is known for offering very tight spreads on various assets, including cryptocurrencies during liquid periods, often in conjunction with a commission. Plus500 incorporates its fee into the spread, which can sometimes result in wider spreads, but without a separate commission. Always compare the all-in costs (spread + commission) when evaluating 'tightness'.

Can UK residents trade crypto CFDs with these brokers?

Due to FCA regulations, UK retail clients are prohibited from trading crypto CFDs with FCA-regulated brokers. To trade crypto CFDs, UK residents would typically need to open an account with an offshore entity of a broker, meaning they would not have FCA protection or FSCS eligibility. It's crucial to understand the regulatory entity you are trading with.

What platforms do IC Markets and Plus500 offer for crypto trading?

IC Markets offers multiple popular platforms, including MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and cTrader, which provide advanced charting and customisation. Plus500 operates on its own proprietary WebTrader and mobile applications, which are known for their user-friendly interface and simplicity.

IC Markets vs Plus500 Crypto Spreads (2026)

When considering cryptocurrency CFD trading in the UK, understanding the offerings of various brokers is paramount. This analysis dives into "IC Markets vs Plus500 crypto spreads" to help you discern which platform might be a better fit for your trading strategy. Both brokers are popular choices, but they cater to different types of traders and offer distinct trading environments, particularly concerning volatile assets like cryptocurrencies.

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Understanding Crypto Spreads with IC Markets and Plus500

Cryptocurrency spreads are the difference between the bid and ask price of a crypto CFD. They represent the cost of executing a trade and can vary significantly based on market volatility, liquidity, and the broker's pricing model. For assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other altcoins, these spreads can be more dynamic than traditional forex pairs. Both IC Markets and Plus500 offer CFD trading on a range of cryptocurrencies, but their approach to pricing and platforms differs.

IC Markets: Raw Spreads and Multiple Platforms

IC Markets is renowned for its raw spread offering, particularly popular among high-volume and algorithmic traders. While their primary focus has historically been forex, they have expanded their CFD offerings to include cryptocurrencies. On IC Markets, crypto spreads are typically variable and can be very competitive, especially during liquid market hours. They aggregate liquidity from multiple providers, which aims to provide tighter spreads. For crypto, they primarily offer CFDs on major cryptocurrencies. Their MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader platforms give traders a choice of advanced tools and customisation options.

Plus500: Proprietary Platform and Fixed Spreads

Plus500 operates on a proprietary, user-friendly platform designed for simplicity and ease of use. They often market themselves as suitable for beginners due to their intuitive interface. When it comes to crypto CFDs, Plus500 typically incorporates its trading fee into a wider spread, meaning there's usually no separate commission. Their spreads for cryptocurrencies can sometimes be wider than those offered by brokers with raw spread models, but they are generally transparent and can be more predictable, which might appeal to traders who prefer a straightforward cost structure.

Comparison Table: IC Markets vs Plus500 for UK Traders

Here's a breakdown comparing key aspects relevant to UK traders, including crypto spread characteristics:

| Feature | IC Markets | Plus500 |

| :------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------ | :-------------------------------------------------------- |

| Spreads (EUR/USD)| From 0.0 pips (Raw Account) or 0.6 pips (Standard Account) | From 0.8 pips (typical, at time of writing — check broker site) |

| Spreads (GBP/USD)| From 0.0 pips (Raw Account) or 0.8 pips (Standard Account) | From 1.5 pips (typical, at time of writing — check broker site) |

| Spreads (XAU/USD)| From 0.0 pips (Raw Account) or 0.2 pips (Standard Account) | From 0.3 pips (typical, at time of writing — check broker site) |

| Crypto Spreads | Variable, typically tighter, commission on Raw Account (typical, at time of writing — check broker site) | Variable, often wider (cost built into spread), no commission (typical, at time of writing — check broker site) |

| Commission | Yes, on Raw Spread Accounts (e.g., $3.50 per lot per side for forex) | No (cost built into spread) |

| Min Deposit | $200 (or equivalent in GBP) | £100 (or equivalent) |

| Regulators | ASIC, CySEC, SCB, FSA Seychelles | FCA, CySEC, ASIC, MAS, FSA (Seychelles) + others |

| Platforms | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader | Proprietary Plus500 WebTrader & Mobile Apps |

*Note: Figures are typical at the time of writing and are subject to change. Always check the respective broker's official website for the most current and accurate information.*

Verdict by Trader Type

For Cost-Sensitive, High-Volume, or Algorithmic Traders

If your primary concern is the tightest possible spreads, especially for forex and potentially for crypto during peak liquidity, IC Markets generally holds an advantage with its raw spread accounts. The commission per lot on forex is a known cost, and the base spreads can be extremely low. For active traders who execute many trades, this model can lead to lower overall trading costs. Their support for MetaTrader and cTrader also caters to those who need advanced charting, custom indicators, and automated trading capabilities.

For Beginners or Those Prioritising Simplicity

Plus500 excels in user-friendliness and simplicity. Its proprietary platform is intuitive, making it an excellent choice for traders new to the markets or those who prefer a streamlined interface without the complexities of MetaTrader. The lack of separate commissions means the cost is transparently built into the spread, which can be easier to understand. While their crypto spreads might be slightly wider than IC Markets' raw offerings, the overall experience is designed to be accessible. Keep in mind that Plus500 focuses solely on CFDs.

Important Considerations for UK Traders

Both brokers offer CFD products, which are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. A significant percentage of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Always engage in risk management practices and never trade with more capital than you can afford to lose.

Regulation

For UK traders, FCA regulation is a significant factor. Plus500 is regulated by the FCA, offering an added layer of protection under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). While IC Markets has global entities, their main offering for UK clients typically comes from their Seychelles entity, which does not provide FSCS protection. This is a crucial point for risk-averse UK traders to consider.

Cryptocurrency CFD Limitations

It's vital to remember that due to FCA regulations, retail clients in the UK are prohibited from trading crypto-assets and derivatives, including crypto CFDs, offered by firms that are regulated by the FCA. Therefore, for UK traders looking to trade crypto CFDs, they would need to do so via an offshore entity of a broker, which means foregoing FCA protection and FSCS eligibility. Always understand the regulatory implications of where your account is held.

Conclusion

The choice between IC Markets and Plus500 for crypto spreads ultimately depends on your trading style, experience, and priorities. IC Markets offers competitive raw spreads with a commission structure on powerful third-party platforms, appealing to advanced traders. Plus500 provides a simple, all-inclusive spread model on its proprietary platform, suitable for those who value ease of use. Remember to check the latest spread information directly on their websites, and always be mindful of CFD risks.

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Risk warning: CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

IC Markets vs Plus500 Crypto Spreads: A UK Trader's Analysis

Quick answer (2026)